US10583328B2 - Method and system for automated personal training - Google Patents

Abstract

Example embodiments may relate to a system, method, apparatus, and computer readable media configured for monitoring a user performing an exercise and generating a avatar of the user and a virtual shadow, wherein the virtual shadow illustrates proper form of the exercise. The example embodiments may further be configured for determining an amount of overlap between the virtual avatar and the virtual shadow, and generating a feedback score based on the amount of overlap.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/290,478, filed Nov. 7, 2011, which will issue as U.S. Pat. No. 9,358,426 on Jun. 7, 2016, and which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/410,777 filed Nov. 5, 2010, 61/417,102 filed Nov. 24, 2010, 61/422,511 filed Dec. 13, 2010, 61/432,472 filed Jan. 13, 2011, and 61/433,792 filed Jan. 18, 2011, each of which is entitled “Method and System for Automated Personal Training.” The content of each of the applications is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for any and all non-limiting purposes.

BACKGROUND

While most people appreciate the importance of physical fitness, many have difficulty finding the motivation required to maintain a regular exercise program. Some people find it particularly difficult to maintain an exercise regimen that involves continuously repetitive motions, such as running, walking and bicycling.

Additionally, individuals may view exercise as work or a chore and thus, separate it from enjoyable aspects of their daily lives. Often, this separation between athletic activity and other activities reduces the amount of motivation that an individual might have toward exercising. Further, athletic activity services and systems directed toward encouraging individuals to engage in athletic activities might also be too focused on one or more particular activities while an individual's interests are ignored. This may further decrease a user's interest in participating in athletic activities or using the athletic activity services and systems.

Therefore, improved systems and methods to address these and other shortcomings in the art are desired.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. The summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is neither intended to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure. The following summary merely presents some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the description below.

Aspects of this disclosure relate to motivating individuals to obtain or maintain a threshold level of physical activity. Certain implementations may motivate individuals to participate in a regular exercise program. In one embodiment, feedback may facilitate individuals observing one or more benefits associated with physical activity. By realizing benefits associated with their activities, users may be encouraged to continue exercising, such as through participation in one or more regular activities.

Example embodiments may relate to a system, method, apparatus, and computer readable media configured for monitoring a user performing an exercise and generating a representation of a user and a virtual shadow. According to one implementation, the virtual shadow may illustrate a proper form (or any specific form) of the exercise. The example embodiments may further be configured for determining an amount of overlap between the user representation and the virtual shadow, and generating a feedback score based on the amount of overlap.

These and other aspects of the embodiments are discussed in greater detail throughout this disclosure, including the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements and in which:

FIGS. 1A-B illustrate an example of a system for providing personal training in accordance with example embodiments, whereinFIG. 1A illustrates an example network configured to monitor athletic activity, andFIG. 1B illustrates an example computing device in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 2A-B illustrate example sensor assemblies that may be worn by a user in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for providing a user with feedback while exercising, in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates example points on a user's body to monitor in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example posture assessment in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate example displays of a virtual trainer instructing a user on how to perform an exercise in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 8, 9, and 10A-10B illustrate example displays of a user avatar performing an exercise in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 11-12 illustrate example displays each including a virtual shadow for a user avatar in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate example locations of virtual shadows for a user avatar in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example display of image subsections for determining an amount of overlap between a user avatar and a virtual shadow in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example display of a user avatar having a magnified inset view providing feedback on improper form while performing an exercise in accordance with example embodiments.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate example displays for depicting a user avatar relative to a virtual shadow for detecting improper form and providing feedback to a user in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of onion skinning on an image of a user in accordance with example embodiments.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for providing virtual competition in a virtual environment between multiple virtual avatars, in accordance with one or more example embodiments.

FIG. 19 illustrates multiple avatars, each having a shadow, competing in a virtual environment, in accordance with one or more example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of the various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration various embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, headings within this disclosure should not be considered as limiting aspects of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that the example embodiments are not limited to the example headings.

I. Example Personal Training System

A. Illustrative Computing Devices

FIG. 1A illustrates an example of apersonal training system100 in accordance with example embodiments.Example system100 may include one or more electronic devices, such ascomputer102.Computer102 may comprise a mobile terminal, such as a telephone, music player, tablet, netbook or any portable device. In other embodiments,computer102 may comprise a set-top box (STB), desktop computer, digital video recorder(s) (DVR), computer server(s), and/or any other desired computing device. In certain configurations,computer102 may comprise a gaming console, such as for example, a Microsoft® XBOX, Sony® Playstation, and/or a Nintendo® Wii gaming consoles. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these are merely example consoles for descriptive purposes and this disclosure is not limited to any console or device.

Turning briefly toFIG. 1B,computer102 may includecomputing unit104, which may comprise at least oneprocessing unit106.Processing unit106 may be any type of processing device for executing software instructions, such as for example, a microprocessor device.Computer102 may include a variety of non-transitory computer readable media, such asmemory108.Memory108 may include, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM) such asRAM110, and/or read only memory (ROM), such asROM112.Memory108 may include any of: electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and that can be accessed bycomputer102.

Theprocessing unit106 and thesystem memory108 may be connected, either directly or indirectly, through abus114 or alternate communication structure to one or more peripheral devices. For example, theprocessing unit106 or thesystem memory108 may be directly or indirectly connected to additional memory storage, such as ahard disk drive116, a removable magnetic disk drive, anoptical disk drive118, and a flash memory card, as well as to inputdevices120, andoutput devices122. Theprocessing unit106 and thesystem memory108 also may be directly or indirectly connected to one ormore input devices120 and one ormore output devices122. Theoutput devices122 may include, for example, a monitor display, television, printer, stereo, or speakers. Theinput devices120 may include, for example, a keyboard, touch screen, a remote control pad, a pointing device (such as a mouse, touchpad, stylus, trackball, or joystick), a scanner, a camera or a microphone. In this regard,input devices120 may comprise one or more sensors configured to sense, detect, and/or measure athletic movement from a user, such asuser124, shown inFIG. 1A.

Looking again toFIG. 1A, image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may be utilized in detecting and/or measuring athletic movements ofuser124. In one embodiment, data obtained image-capturingdevice126 orsensor128 may directly detect athletic movements, such that the data obtained from image-capturingdevice126 orsensor128 is directly correlated to a motion parameter. For example, and with reference toFIG. 4, image data from image-capturingdevice126 may detect that the distance betweensensor locations402gand402ihas decreased and therefore, image-capturingdevice126 alone may be configured to detect that user's124 right arm has moved. Yet, in other embodiments, data from image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may be utilized in combination, either with each other or with other sensors to detect and/or measure movements. Thus, certain measurements may be determined from combining data obtained from two or more devices. Image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may include or be operatively connected to one or more sensors, including but not limited to: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a location-determining device (e.g., GPS), light sensor, temperature sensor (including ambient temperature and/or body temperature), heart rate monitor, image-capturing sensor, moisture sensor and/or combinations thereof. Example uses ofillustrative sensors126,128 are provided below in Section I.C, entitled “Illustrative Sensors.”Computer102 may also use touch screens or image capturing device to determine where a user is pointing to make selections from a graphical user interface. One or more embodiments may utilize one or more wired and/or wireless technologies, alone or in combination, wherein examples of wireless technologies include Bluetooth® technologies, Bluetooth® low energy technologies, and/or ANT technologies.

B. Illustrative Network

Still further,computer102, computingunit104, and/or any other electronic devices may be directly or indirectly connected to one or more network interfaces, such as example interface130 (shown inFIG. 1B) for communicating with a network, such asnetwork132. In the example ofFIG. 1B,network interface130, may comprise a network adapter or network interface card (NIC) configured to translate data and control signals from thecomputing unit104 into network messages according to one or more communication protocols, such as the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), the Internet Protocol (IP), and the User Datagram Protocol (UDP). These protocols are well known in the art, and thus will not be discussed here in more detail. Aninterface130 may employ any suitable connection agent for connecting to a network, including, for example, a wireless transceiver, a power line adapter, a modem, or an Ethernet connection.Network132, however, may be any one or more information distribution network(s), of any type(s) or topography(s), alone or in combination(s), such as internet(s), intranet(s), cloud(s), LAN(s).Network132 may be any one or more of cable, fiber, satellite, telephone, cellular, wireless, etc. Networks are well known in the art, and thus will not be discussed here in more detail.Network132 may be variously configured such as having one or more wired or wireless communication channels to connect one or more locations (e.g., schools, businesses, homes, consumer dwellings, network resources, etc.), to one or moreremote servers134, or to other computers, such as similar or identical tocomputer102. Indeed,system100 may include more than one instance of each component (e.g., more than onecomputer102, more than onedisplay136, etc.).

Regardless of whethercomputer102 or other electronic device withinnetwork132 is portable or at a fixed location, it should be appreciated that, in addition to the input, output and storage peripheral devices specifically listed above, the computing device may be connected, such as either directly, or throughnetwork132 to a variety of other peripheral devices, including some that may perform input, output and storage functions, or some combination thereof. In certain embodiments, a single device may integrate one or more components shown inFIG. 1A. For example, a single device may includecomputer102, image-capturingdevice126,sensor128,display136 and/or additional components. In one embodiment,sensor device138 may comprise a mobile terminal having adisplay136, image-capturingdevice126, and one ormore sensors128. Yet, in another embodiment, image-capturingdevice126, and/orsensor128 may be peripherals configured to be operatively connected to a media device, including for example, a gaming or media system. Thus, it goes from the foregoing that this disclosure is not limited to stationary systems and methods. Rather, certain embodiments may be carried out by auser124 in almost any location.

C. Illustrative Sensors

Computer102 and/or other devices may comprise one ormore sensors126,128 configured to detect and/or monitor at least one fitness parameter of auser124.Sensors126 and/or128, may include but not limited to: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a location-determining device (e.g., GPS), light sensor, temperature sensor (including ambient temperature and/or body temperature), heart rate monitor, image-capturing sensor, moisture sensor and/or combinations thereof.Network132 and/orcomputer102 may be in communication with one or more electronic devices ofsystem100, including for example,display136, an image capturing device126 (e.g., one or more video cameras), andsensor128, which may be an infrared (IR) device. In oneembodiment sensor128 may comprise an IR transceiver. For example,sensors126, and/or128 may transmit waveforms into the environment, including towards the direction ofuser124 and receive a “reflection” or otherwise detect alterations of those released waveforms. In yet another embodiment, image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may be configured to transmit and/or receive other wireless signals, such as radar, sonar, and/or audible information. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that signals corresponding to a multitude of different data spectrums may be utilized in accordance with various embodiments. In this regard,sensors126 and/or128 may detect waveforms emitted from external sources (e.g., not system100). For example,sensors126 and/or128 may detect heat being emitted fromuser124 and/or the surrounding environment. Thus, image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may comprise one or more thermal imaging devices. In one embodiment, image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128 may comprise an IR device configured to perform range phenomenology. As a non-limited example, image-capturing devices configured to perform range phenomenology are commercially available from Flir Systems, Inc. of Portland, Oreg. Althoughimage capturing device126 andsensor128 anddisplay136 are shown in direct (wirelessly or wired) communication withcomputer102, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any may directly communicate (wirelessly or wired) withnetwork132.

1. Multi-Purpose Electronic Devices

User124 may possess, carry, and/or wear any number of electronic devices, includingsensory devices138,140,142, and/or144. In certain embodiments, one ormore devices138,140,142,144 may not be specially manufactured for fitness or athletic purposes. Indeed, aspects of this disclosure relate to utilizing data from a plurality of devices, some of which are not fitness devices, to collect, detect, and/or measure athletic data. In one embodiment,device138 may comprise a portable electronic device, such as a telephone or digital music player, including an IPOD®, IPAD®, or iPhone®, brand devices available from Apple, Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. or Zune® or Microsoft® Windows devices available from Microsoft of Redmond, Wash. As known in the art, digital media players can serve as both an output device for a computer (e.g., outputting music from a sound file or pictures from an image file) and a storage device. In one embodiment,device138 may becomputer102, yet in other embodiments,computer102 may be entirely distinct fromdevice138. Regardless of whetherdevice138 is configured to provide certain output, it may serve as an input device for receiving sensory information.Devices138,140,142, and/or144 may include one or more sensors, including but not limited to: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a location-determining device (e.g., GPS), light sensor, temperature sensor (including ambient temperature and/or body temperature), heart rate monitor, image-capturing sensor, moisture sensor and/or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, sensors may be passive, such as reflective materials that may be detected by image-capturingdevice126 and/or sensor128 (among others). In certain embodiments, sensors144 may be integrated into apparel, such as athletic clothing. For instance, theuser124 may wear one or more on-body sensors144a-b. Sensors144 may be incorporated into the clothing ofuser124 and/or placed at any desired location of the body ofuser124. Sensors144 may communicate (e.g., wirelessly) withcomputer102,sensors128,138,140, and142, and/orcamera126. Examples of interactive gaming apparel are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/286,396, filed Oct. 30, 2002, and published as U.S. Pat. Pub, No. 2004/0087366, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for any and all non-limiting purposes. In certain embodiments, passive sensing surfaces may reflect waveforms, such as infrared light, emitted by image-capturingdevice126 and/orsensor128. In one embodiment, passive sensors located on user's124 apparel may comprise generally spherical structures made of glass or other transparent or translucent surfaces which may reflect waveforms. Different classes of apparel may be utilized in which a given class of apparel has specific sensors configured to be located proximate to a specific portion of the user's124 body when properly worn. For example, golf apparel may include one or more sensors positioned on the apparel in a first configuration and yet soccer apparel may include one or more sensors positioned on apparel in a second configuration. For example, looking briefly toFIG. 14, golf apparel may have more sensors positioned aboutregions1402A and1402D than apparel for soccer, which may have more sensors (and/or different types of sensors) positioned aboutregions1402C and1402F). Devices138-144 may communicate with each other, either directly or through a network, such asnetwork132. Communication between one or more of devices138-144 may communicate throughcomputer102. For example, two or more of devices138-144 may be peripherals operatively connected tobus114 ofcomputer102. In yet another embodiment, a first device, such asdevice138 may communicate with a first computer, such ascomputer102 as well as another device, such asdevice142, however,device142 may not be configured to connect tocomputer102 but may communicate withdevice138. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations are possible.

Some implementations of the example embodiments may alternately or additionally employ computing devices that are intended to be capable of a wide variety of functions, such as a desktop or laptop personal computer. These computing devices may have any combination of peripheral devices or additional components as desired. Also, the components shown inFIG. 1B may be included in theserver134, other computers, apparatuses, etc.

2. Illustrative Apparel/Accessory Sensors

In certain embodiments,sensory devices138,140,142 and/or144 may be formed within or otherwise associated with user's124 clothing or accessories, including a watch, armband, wristband, necklace, shirt, shoe, or the like. Examples of shoe-mounted and wrist-worn devices (devices140 and142, respectively) are described immediately below, however, these are merely example embodiments and this disclosure should not be limited to such.

i. Shoe-Mounted Device

In certain embodiments,sensory device140 may comprise footwear which may include one or more sensors, including but not limited to: an accelerometer, location-sensing components, such as GPS, and/or a force sensor system.FIG. 2A illustrates one exemplary embodiment of anexample sensor system202. In certain embodiments,system202 may include asensor assembly204.Assembly204 may comprise one or more sensors, such as for example, an accelerometer, location-determining components, and/or force sensors. In the illustrated embodiment,assembly204 incorporates a plurality of sensors, which may include force-sensitive resistor (FSR)sensors206. In yet other embodiments, other sensor(s) may be utilized.Port208 may be positioned within asole structure209 of a shoe.Port208 may optionally be provided to be in communication with an electronic module210 (which maybe in a housing211) and a plurality ofleads212 connecting theFSR sensors206 to theport208.Module210 may be contained within a well or cavity in a sole structure of a shoe. Theport208 and themodule210 includecomplementary interfaces214,216 for connection and communication.

In certain embodiments, at least one force-sensitive resistor206 shown inFIG. 2A may contain first and second electrodes orelectrical contacts218,220 and a force-sensitiveresistive material222 and/or224 disposed between theelectrodes218,220 to electrically connect theelectrodes218,220 together. When pressure is applied to the force-sensitive material222/224, the resistivity and/or conductivity of the force-sensitive material222/224 changes, which changes the electrical potential between theelectrodes218,220. The change in resistance can be detected by thesensor system202 to detect the force applied on thesensor216. The force-sensitiveresistive material222/224 may change its resistance under pressure in a variety of ways. For example, the force-sensitive material222/224 may have an internal resistance that decreases when the material is compressed, similar to the quantum tunneling composites described in greater detail below. Further compression of this material may further decrease the resistance, allowing quantitative measurements, as well as binary (on/off) measurements. In some circumstances, this type of force-sensitive resistive behavior may be described as “volume-based resistance,” and materials exhibiting this behavior may be referred to as “smart materials.” As another example, thematerial222/224 may change the resistance by changing the degree of surface-to-surface contact. This can be achieved in several ways, such as by using microprojections on the surface that raise the surface resistance in an uncompressed condition, where the surface resistance decreases when the microprojections are compressed, or by using a flexible electrode that can be deformed to create increased surface-to-surface contact with another electrode. This surface resistance may be the resistance between the material222 and theelectrode218,220 and/or the surface resistance between a conducting layer (e.g. carbon/graphite) and a force-sensitive layer (e.g. a semiconductor) of amulti-layer material222/224. The greater the compression, the greater the surface-to-surface contact, resulting in lower resistance and enabling quantitative measurement. In some circumstances, this type of force-sensitive resistive behavior may be described as “contact-based resistance.” It is understood that the force-sensitiveresistive material222/224, as defined herein, may be or include a doped or non-doped semiconducting material.

Theelectrodes218,220 of theFSR sensor206 can be formed of any conductive material, including metals, carbon/graphite fibers or composites, other conductive composites, conductive polymers or polymers containing a conductive material, conductive ceramics, doped semiconductors, or any other conductive material. The leads212 can be connected to theelectrodes218,220 by any suitable method, including welding, soldering, brazing, adhesively joining, fasteners, or any other integral or non-integral joining method. Alternately, theelectrode218,220 and associated lead(s)212 may be formed of a single piece of thesame material222/224. In further embodiments,material222 is configured to have at least one electric property (e.g., conductivity, resistance, etc.) thanmaterial224. Examples of exemplary sensors are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/483,824, filed on Jun. 12, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety for any and all non-limiting purposes.

ii. Wrist-Worn Device

As shown inFIG. 2B, device226 (which may be, or be a duplicative of or resemblesensory device142 shown inFIG. 1A) may be configured to be worn byuser124, such as around a wrist, arm, ankle or the like. Device226 may monitor movements of a user, including, e.g., athletic movements or other activity ofuser124. For example, in one embodiment, device226 may be activity monitor that measures, monitors, tracks or otherwise senses the user's activity (or inactivity) regardless of the user's proximity or interactions withcomputer102. Device226 may detect athletic movement or other activity (or inactivity) during user's124 interactions withcomputer102 and/or operate independently ofcomputer102. Device226 may communicate directly or indirectly, wired or wirelessly, withnetwork132 and/or other devices, such asdevices138 and/or140. Athletic data obtained from device226 may be utilized in determinations conducted bycomputer102, such as determinations relating to which exercise programs are presented touser124. As used herein, athletic data means data regarding or relating to a user's activity (or inactivity). In one embodiment, device226 may wirelessly interact with a remote website such as a site dedicated to fitness or health related subject matter, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via a mobile device, such asdevice138 associated with user124). In this or another embodiment, device226 may interact with a mobile device, such asdevice138, as to an application dedicated to fitness or health related subject matter. In these or other embodiments, device226 may interest with both a mobile device as to an application as above, such asdevice138, and a remote website, such as a site dedicated to fitness or health related subject matter, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via the mobile device, such as device138). In some embodiments, at some predetermined time(s), the user may wish to transfer data from the device226 to another location. For example, a user may wish to upload data from a portable device with a relatively smaller memory to a larger device with a larger quantity of memory. Communication between device226 and other devices may be done wirelessly and/or through wired mechanisms.

As shown inFIG. 2B, device226 may include an input mechanism, such as abutton228, to assist in operation of the device226. Thebutton228 may be a depressible input operably connected to acontroller230 and/or any other electronic components, such as one or more elements of the type(s) discussed in relation tocomputer102 shown inFIG. 1B.Controller230 may be embedded or otherwise part ofhousing232.Housing232 may be formed of one or more materials, including elastomeric components and comprise one or more displays, such asdisplay234. The display may be considered an illuminable portion of the device226. Thedisplay234 may include a series of individual lighting elements or light members such asLED lights234 in an exemplary embodiment. The LED lights may be formed in an array and operably connected to thecontroller230. Device226 may include anindicator system236, which may also be considered a portion or component of theoverall display234. It is understood that theindicator system236 can operate and illuminate in conjunction with the display234 (which may have pixel member235) or completely separate from thedisplay234. Theindicator system236 may also include a plurality of additional lighting elements orlight members238, which may also take the form of LED lights in an exemplary embodiment. In certain embodiments,indicator system236 may provide a visual indication of goals, such as by illuminating a portion oflighting members238 to represent accomplishment towards one or more goals.

Afastening mechanism240 can be unlatched wherein the device226 can be positioned around a wrist of theuser124 and thefastening mechanism240 can be subsequently placed in a latched position. The user can wear the device226 at all times if desired. In one embodiment,fastening mechanism240 may comprise an interface, including but not limited to a USB port, for operative interaction withcomputer102 and/ordevices138,140, and/or recharging an internal power source.

In certain embodiments, device226 may comprise a sensor assembly (not shown inFIG. 2B). The sensor assembly may comprise a plurality of different sensors. In an example embodiment, the sensor assembly may comprise or permit operative connection to an accelerometer (including in the form of a multi-axis accelerometer), a gyroscope, a location-determining device (e.g., GPS), light sensor, temperature sensor (including ambient temperature and/or body temperature), heart rate monitor, image-capturing sensor, moisture sensor and/or combinations thereof. Detected movements or parameters from device's142 sensor(s), may include (or be used to form) a variety of different parameters, metrics or physiological characteristics including but not limited to speed, distance, steps taken, and energy expenditure such as calories, heart rate and sweat detection. Such parameters may also be expressed in terms of activity points or currency earned by the user based on the activity of the user. Examples of wrist-worn sensors that may be utilized in accordance with various embodiments are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/287,064, filed on Nov. 1, 2011, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety for any and all non-limiting purposes.

II. Illustrative Athletic Monitoring Methods

System100 may prompt a user to perform one or more exercises, monitor user movement while performing the exercises, and provide the user with feedback based on their performance. In one embodiment,computer102, image-capturingdevice126,sensor128, and display136 may be implemented within the confines of a user's residence, although other locations, including schools, gyms and/or businesses are contemplated. Further, as discussed above,computer102 may be a portable device, such as a cellular telephone, therefore, one or more aspects discussed herein may be conducted in almost any location.

A. Monitoring User Movements

While exercising, thesystem100 may use one or more techniques to monitor user movement.FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for providing a user with feedback while exercising, in accordance with one or more example embodiments. The method may be implemented by a computer, such as, for example,computer102,device138,140,142 and/or144, and/or other apparatuses. The blocks shown inFIG. 3 may be rearranged, some blocks may be removed, additional blocks may be added, each block may be repeated one or more times, and the flow diagram may be repeated one or more times. The flow diagram may begin atblock302.

1. Perform User Assessment

Inblock302, one or more embodiments may include performing an initial assessment of the user. A user, such asuser124, may be positioned in range of a sensor, such as in front of theimage capturing device126 and/orsensor128, which may comprise an infrared transceiver.Display136 may present a representation ofuser124 that may be a “mirror-image” or depict a virtual avatar, such as a user avatar, that moves to correspond with user movement.Computer102 may prompt the user to move into a certain region relative to theimage capturing device126 and/or relative to thesensor128 so that the user is within frame and/or range. When properly positioned, thesystem100 may process movement of the user. Although the term “initial” has been utilized, this assessment may occur each time the user initiatessystem100, or upon predetermined (e.g., regular or random) times that the user initiatessystem100, or upon passage of time (e.g., from first initiation or thereafter based on such occurrences in turn), or each time the user performs any one or more of some predetermined, user-selected, sequence, set or other movement, or for any other reason. Thus, references to assessments herein are not limited to a single assessment.

a. Identify Sensory Locations

Thesystem100 may process sensory data to identify user movement data. In one embodiment, sensory locations may be identified (see block302a). For example, images of recorded video, such as from image-capturingdevice126, may be utilized in an identification of user movement. For example, the user may stand a certain distance, which may or may not be predefined, from the image-capturingdevice126, andcomputer102 may process the images to identify theuser124 within the video, for example, using disparity mapping techniques. In an example, theimage capturing device126 may be a stereo camera having two or more lenses that are spatially offset from one another and that simultaneously capture two or more images of the user.Computer102 may process the two or more images taken at a same time instant to generate a disparity map for determining a location of certain parts of the user's body in each image (or at least some of the images) in the video using a coordinate system (e.g., Cartesian coordinates). The disparity map may indicate a difference between an image taken by each of the offset lenses.

In a second example, one or more sensors may be located on or proximate to the user's124 body at various locations or wear a suit having sensors situated at various locations. Yet, in other embodiments, sensor locations may be determined from other sensory devices, such asdevices138,140,142 and/or144. With reference toFIG. 4, sensors may be placed (or associated with, such as with image-capturing device126) body movement regions, such as joints (e.g., ankles, elbows, shoulders, etc.) or at other locations of interest on the user's124 body. Example sensory locations are denoted inFIG. 4 by locations402a-402o. In this regard, sensors may be physical sensors located on/in a user's clothing, yet in other embodiments, sensor locations402a-402omay be based upon identification of relationships between two moving body parts. For example,sensor location402amay be determined by identifying motions ofuser124 with an image-capturing device, such as image-capturingdevice126. Thus, in certain embodiments, a sensor may not physically be located at a specific location (such as sensor locations402a-4020), but is configured to sense properties of that location, such as with image-capturingdevice126. In this regard, the overall shape or portion of a user's body may permit identification of certain body parts. Regardless of whether an image-capturing device, such ascamera126, is utilized and/or a physical sensor located on theuser124, such as sensors within or separate from one or more of device(s)138,140,142,144 are utilized, the sensors may sense a current location of a body part and/or track movement of the body part. In one embodiment,location402mmay be utilized in a determination of the user's center of gravity (a.k.a, center of mass). For example, relationships betweenlocation402aand location(s)402f/402lwith respect to one or more of location(s)402m-402omay be utilized to determine if a user's center of gravity has been elevated along the vertical axis (such as during a jump) or if a user is attempting to “fake” a jump by bending and flexing their knees. In one embodiment,sensor location402nmay be located at about the sternum ofuser124. Likewise, sensor location402omay be located approximate to the naval ofuser124. In certain embodiments, data fromsensor locations402m-402omay be utilized (alone or in combination with other data) to determine the center of gravity foruser124. In further embodiments, relationships between multiple several sensor locations, such assensors402m-402o, may be utilized in determining orientation of theuser124 and/or rotational forces, such as twisting of user's124 torso. Further, one or more locations, such as location(s), may be utilized to as a center of moment location. For example, in one embodiment, one or more of location(s)402m-402omay serve as a point for a center of moment location ofuser124. In another embodiment, one or more locations may serve as a center of moment of specific body parts or regions.

In certain embodiments, a time stamp to the data collected (such as collected part ofblock302 inFIG. 3) indicating a specific time when a body part was at a certain location. Sensor data may be received at computer102 (or other device) via wireless or wired transmission. A computer, such ascomputer102 and/ordevices138,140,142,144 may process the time stamps to determine the locations of the body parts using a coordinate system (e.g., Cartesian coordinates) within each (or at least some) of the images in the video. Data received from image-capturingdevice126 may be corrected, modified, and/or combined with data received from one or moreother devices138,140,142 and144.

In a third example,computer102 may use infrared pattern recognition to detect user movement and locations of body parts of theuser124. For example, thesensor128 may include an infrared transceiver, which may be part of image-capturingdevice126, or another device, that may emit an infrared signal to illuminate the user's124 body using infrared signals. Theinfrared transceiver128 may capture a reflection of the infrared signal from the body ofuser124. Based on the reflection,computer102 may identify a location of certain parts of the user's body using a coordinate system (e.g., Cartesian coordinates) at particular instances in time. Which and how body parts are identified may be predetermined based on a type of exercise a user is requested to perform.

As part of a workout routine,computer102 may make an initial postural assessment of theuser124 as part of the initial user assessment inblock302 ofFIG. 3. With reference toFIG. 5,computer102 may analyze front and side images of auser124 to determine a location of one or more of a user's shoulders, upper back, lower back, hips, knees, and ankles. On-body sensors and/or infrared techniques may also be used, either alone or in conjunction with image-capturingdevice126, to determine the locations of various body parts for the postural assessment. For example,computer102 may determineassessment lines124a-gto determine the locations of a various points on a user's body, such as, for example, ankles, knees, hips, upper back, lower back, and shoulders.

b. Identify Sensory Regions

In further embodiments,system100 may identify sensor regions (see, e.g. block302b). In one embodiment,assessments lines124a-gmay be utilized to divide the user's body into regions. For example,lines124b-fmay be horizontal axes. For example, a “shoulders”region502 may correlate to a body portion having a lower boundary around the user's shoulders (seeline124b),region504 may correlate to the body portion between the shoulders (line124b) and about half the distance to the hips (seeline124c) and thus be an “upper back” region, andregion506 may span the area betweenline124cto the hips (seeline124d) to comprise a “lower back region.” Similarly,region508 may span the area between the “hips” (line124d) and the “knees” (seeline124e),region510 may span betweenlines124eand124fand region512 (see “ankles”) may have an upper boundary aroundline124fRegions502-512 may be further divided, such as into quadrants, such as by usingaxes124aand124g

c. Categorize Locations or Regions

Regardless of whether specific points (e.g., locations shown inFIG. 4) and/or regions (e.g. regions shown inFIG. 5), body parts or regions that are not proximate to each other may nonetheless be categorized into the same movement category (see, e.g. block302c). For example, as shown inFIG. 5, the “upper back”, “hips”, and “ankles”regions504,508,512 may be categorized as belonging to a “mobility” category. In another embodiment, the “lower back” and “knees”regions506,510 may be categorized as belonging to a “stability” category. The categorizations are merely examples, and in other embodiments, a location or region may belong to multiple categories. For example, a “center of gravity” region may be formed fromregions504 and506. In one embodiment, a “center of gravity” may comprise portions ofregions504 and506. IN another embodiment, a “center of moment” category may be provided, either independently, or alternatively, as comprising a portion of at least another category. In one embodiment, a single location may be weighted in two or more categories, such as being 10% weighted in a “stability” category and 90% weighted in a “mobility” category.

Computer102 may also process the image to determine a color of clothing of the user or other distinguishing features to differentiate the user from their surroundings. After processing,computer102 may identify a location of multiple points on the user's body and track locations of those points, such as locations402 inFIG. 4.Computer102 may also prompt the user to answer questions to supplement the postural assessment, such as, for example, age, weight, etc.

2. Providing Form

With reference again toFIG. 3, inblock304, one or more embodiments may include demonstrating proper form for an exercise and prompting the user to perform the exercise. For example, after or in addition to the initial postural assessment,computer102 may cause thedisplay136 to present a virtual trainer demonstrating an exercise to instruct the user on proper form.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate example displays of avirtual trainer602 performing an exercise in accordance with example embodiments. With reference toFIG. 6, thedisplay136 may present avirtual trainer602 at multiple positions as well as anarrow604 instructing a user in which direction to move. With reference toFIG. 7, thedisplay136 may present an animation of thevirtual trainer602 demonstrating proper form for performing a repetition of an exercise (e.g., a slow lunge). In addition to or instead of avirtual trainer602, thedisplay136 may present a depiction and/or an actual video of a real person demonstrating proper form for an exercise.

Form guidance information702 may be presented on thevirtual trainer602 when demonstrating an exercise.Form guidance information702 may be a straight line, an angle between lines, or other information to guide the user about proper form for an exercise. InFIG. 7, for instance,form guidance information702 is a straight line across a user's hip bones instructing the user to keep their hips level relative to the floor. Form guidance information may be provided through feedback mechanisms that do not include graphical or textual data overlaid on an avatar, such asvirtual trainer602. In this regard, form guidance information may include audio or tactile information. For example, voices or sounds may provide an indication of how straight a user's hips are (or are not). In another embodiment, a signal may be provided to a device, such as sensor device(s)138,140,142 and/or144 to provide vibrational output configured to be felt byuser124 to provide guidance. For example, a vibration may be provided to thesensor device138 upon determining that the user's hips are not straight.

B. Feedback

With reference again toFIG. 3, inblock306, one or more embodiments may comprise monitoring a user performing an exercise and providing the user with feedback on their form. While performing an exercise,computer102 may cause a display, such asdisplay136, to present a user representation with real-time feedback.FIG. 8 illustrates an example display of a user representation performing an exercise in accordance with example embodiments. Whileuser124 is performing movements,computer102 may create a user representation for display by thedisplay136. The computer may create the user representation based on one or more of processing some or all images of video captured byimage capturing device126, processing data received from thesensor128, and processing data received fromsensors138,140,142, and144. The user representation may be, for example, video of the user, or auser avatar802 created based on image and/or sensor data, including infrared data.

1. Guide Information

To assist theuser124,display136 may also presentform guidance information702 onuser avatar802, as well ascurrent form information804 for the user.Current form information804 may be a measurement of a user's current form of interest in a particular exercise.Current form information804 may be a straight line between particular body parts, an angle between certain body parts, curvature of a body part, or other information being monitored for a particular exercise. For example, as seen inFIG. 8,current form information804 may be a straight line between a user's hips to indicate if one hip sags relative to the other (e.g., to indicate whether a straight line between the user's hips is parallel with the floor). Also, the user may place sensors on their body at their hip bones, orcomputer102 may estimate a location of a user's hip bones based on detected infrared information. A color of thecurrent form information804 may vary based on how well the user's form corresponds to desired form. For example, green may indicate less than a 5 degree angle between lines of theform guidance information702 and thecurrent form information804, yellow may indicate a 5 degree to 15 degree angle between lines of theform guidance information702 and thecurrent form information804, and red may indicate greater than a 15 degree angle between lines of theform guidance information702 and thecurrent form information804.

To further aid a user in having proper form,computer102 may also process captured data, such as from the images, infrared data, and/or sensor data, to determine a relationship between certain body parts. These relationships may include an angle of one body part relative to another. For example, when the user is doing a squat,computer102 may compare an angle formed between a user's torso and thigh. In another example,computer102 may compare a location of a user's shoulder relative to their elbow and hand during a push up. In another example,computer102 may compare shoulders and hips to determine relative rotation there between, and/or either or both shoulder and hips relative to one or more feet to determine relative rotation there between or there among, and/or absolute rotation of either the hips or shoulders. Angles, rotations, and other relationships between or among any one or more desired body part(s) may be monitored and analyzed. Angles, rotations, and other relationships between or among a reference point (e.g., off body) and any one or more desired body part(s) may be monitored and analyzed.

2. Comparison of Data

Computer102 may compare the captured data to desired data for each exercise to monitor the user's form while performing an exercise. The desired data may include multiple comparison points throughout an exercise, and/or locations of various body parts during the exercise. For example, a push up may be divided into four events: (1) the lowest point where the user's chest is nearest to the ground or other reference point and/or their arms are bent at a maximum bend; (2) a highest point where the user's chest is farthest from the ground and/or their arms are straightened (e.g., a maximum straightness); (3) an upward event where the user transitions from the lowest point to the highest point; and (4) a downward event where the user transitions from the highest point to the lowest point.

The desired data may specify comparison points for each of these events focusing on certain body parts. For example, at each comparison point during a pushup,computer102 may monitor the spacing of the user's hands, the straightness of the user's back, a location of the user's head relative to their torso, the spacing of the user's feet relative to one another, or other aspects. The desired data may specify desired locations for each body part being monitored during comparison points for an exercise, as well as permitted variations from the desired locations. If the user's body part varies beyond what is permitted,computer102 may provide the user with feedback identifying the body part and a correction to the user's form (e.g., back is arched, and not straight, during a pushup).

Computer102 may also score the user's performance of an exercise. Scoring may be based on the user's form, how quickly the user was able to complete the exercise (e.g., 20 pushups in 60 seconds), a number of repetitions the user completed, the amount of weight the user used during an exercise, or other exercise metrics. In additional to processing the images, sensor data, and infrared data,computer102 may receive data from other sources. For example, the user may run a predetermined distance as measured by a sensor attached to the user (e.g., sensor in a shoe) or global positioning system (GPS) device and may upload the data tocomputer102.Computer102 may process the data to provide the user with feedback.Computer102 may also provide feedback based on analyzing a user from different viewpoints.

3. Representations

FIG. 9 illustrates an example display of multiple user avatars from different viewpoints performing an exercise in accordance with example embodiments. In an example, thesystem100 ofFIG. 1 may include more than oneimage capturing device126 and may capture video from different perspectives. Yet, in other embodiments, data for different angles may be derived from one or more sources. For example, theimage capturing device126 may be positioned at any desired angle relative to a user performing an exercise, such as, for example, at least one of a front view, left side view, a right side view, and a back view of a user. In another example, thesystem100 may include more than oneinfrared device128 to capture infrared reflections of theuser124 from different perspective. Also, thesystem100 may include both animage capturing device126 and an infrared transceiver128 (or more than either one or both) positioned at different/various locations.

Computer102 may process some or all images and/or infrared data to create afirst user avatar802A and asecond user avatar802B for display by thedisplay136. In this manner,display136 may present a user's form from multiple angles for the user to observe. Further,form guidance information702A-C may be added to each of theuser avatars802A-B to aid the user in obtaining proper form.

FIGS. 10A-B illustrate example displays depicting form feedback on a user avatar in accordance with example embodiments. When exercising,display136 may present multiplevirtual targets1002A-C on which the user is instructed to place a hand, foot, or other part of their body. For example,FIG. 10A depictsvirtual target1002A for a user's foot,virtual target1002B for a user's other foot, andvirtual target1002C for a user's hands. The virtual targets1002 may be used to aid a user in having proper form.Computer102 may process video, sensor data, or infrared data for a user to determine if the user has placed the proper body part in the desired virtual target1002 during performance of an exercise. If so,computer102 may cause thedisplay136 to highlight each of the targets1002 in a certain color (e.g., green) and/or play an audible sound. In one embodiment, a range of colors may be displayed based upon the performance of the user. Ranges of coloration may be based upon performance thresholds. For example, a green coloration may be utilized in a user is above a 90% threshold, an orange coloration is utilized if the user is between a 89%-70% threshold, and a red coloration may be utilized if the user's performance falls below a 70% threshold. Similarly, different sounds may be utilized to provide feedback to the user. If not,computer102 may highlight each missed target1002 and/or play an audible sound, and provide a suggestion to correct the user's form. For example,computer102 may determine that a user's knees are bent resulting in the user missing targets (in whole or in part)1002B-C. Computer102 may causedisplay136 to displayuser avatar802 highlighting the knees and/or any other problem area (e.g., different color, encircle one or more body parts, inset picture with enlarged view of problem area, etc.).Display136 may display aninstruction1006 to correct the user's form (e.g., straighten knees).

4. Shadows

Referring briefly again toFIG. 3, inblock308, one or more embodiments may include generating a representation of the user and a virtual shadow, wherein the virtual shadow illustrates proper form of the exercise. The example embodiments also may be used to display a virtual shadow relative to theuser avatar802. The virtual shadow may be used for one or more of demonstrating proper form, presenting a user's (or another individual's) previously recorded performance of an exercise relative to a user's current performance, providing real-time feedback to a user while exercising, facilitating social interaction and/or competition among a plurality of individuals, and providing post-workout feedback to a user on their form, as described in further detail below.

As provided in certain examples below, a shadow may be directly or partially overlaid with an avatar. In other embodiments, however, the shadow may not overlap an avatar at all. For example, in certain embodiments, a shadow may be in the form of a virtual trainer. Although illustrative embodiments disclosed herein relate to displaying the shadow to the user, such as during the user's performance of an athletic activity, other embodiments may not display a visual depiction of a shadow to auser124. In certain embodiments, data corresponding to a dimensional virtual shadow may be utilized without actually displaying a visual depiction of a shadow to a user. This may be advantageous in implementations in which it is undesirable to provide an immediate indication of visual performance measurements to the user. In certain embodiments, audio and/or video cues may provide feedback to the user indicative of their performance relating to a shadow—either independently of or in combination with the shadow.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example user avatar having avirtual shadow1102 to permit a user, such asuser124 shown inFIG. 1, to compete against themselves or others, in accordance with example embodiments. Initially,computer102 may monitor a user performing an exercise using theimage capturing device126,sensor128, and/orsensory devices138,140,142 and/or144. Based on the collected data,computer102 may create a user representation, such as auser avatar802, as well as avirtual shadow1102. Theshadow1102, for example, may be a more transparent version of theuser avatar802, auser avatar802 presented in a different color, auser avatar802 presented having a pattern (e.g., grid, cross hatching, etc.), etc, aavatar802 having a contrasting structure (e.g., composed of spheres, wafers, blocks), etc. Any visual distinctions may be utilized to differentiateavatar802 fromshadow1102.

a. User vs. User

In an example, thevirtual shadow1102 may be displayed with the appearance that a user, such asuser124, is competing against him or herself. For example, computer102 (or any other electronic device) may store auser avatar802 while theuser124 performs an exercise. Later,computer102 may prompt the user if they would like to compete against their earlier performance of the exercise. In that case,system100 may generate avirtual shadow1102 based on theuser avatar802 generated from the most recent or a selected earlier completed exercise session. Self-competition may permit a user to view their improvement over time, including, as examples, the latest improvement or improvement over a (e.g., user-selected) time period or improvement from a beginning.

When competing against him or herself,computer102 may generate anew user avatar802 as the user performs an exercise for simultaneous display with thevirtual shadow1102. Thenew user avatar802 may be displayed overtop of or directly behind the shadow, as seen in for example,FIGS. 11 and 13A. Alternatively, thedisplay136 may present ashadow1102 offset from thenew user avatar802, for example, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13B.Computer102 may synchronize the start times such that theuser avatar802 appears to be competing against thevirtual shadow1102. When an exercise is complete,computer102 may inform theuser124 of the winner, and provide side by side statistics of the current performance relative to thevirtual shadow1102. An example of which is shown bystatistics1104 shown inFIG. 11.

Thedisplay136 may also present one or moreperformance level indicators1202 to indicate a user's performance metrics, as depicted inFIG. 12. Performance level indicators may be displayed instead of a shadow. Yet, in other embodiments, indicators may be displayed in conjunction with a shadow. Example metrics may include speed, quickness, power, dimensions (e.g., distance stepped or dipped, height jumped, rotation of hips or shoulders), reaction time, agility, flexibility, acceleration, heart rate, temperature (e.g., overheating), blood oxygen content, or other physical or physiological metrics. Aperformance level indicator1202 may be depicted as, for example, a gauge, a speedometer, a bar-type indictor, percentage indicator, etc.

b. User v. Another User

In an example, avirtual shadow1102 may be displayed with the appearance that a user, such asuser124, is competing against another user. In one embodiment,user124 may be located at a first physical location, such as their home, and a second user may be located at a second physical location, such as a gym, dwelling, school, or even exercising outside, such as running through a city. Despite being at different physical locations, users may still compete and/or collectively engage in athletic activities. In one embodiment, each of a plurality of users may engage in a competition in substantially real-time. Yet, in other embodiments, a first user may conduct a predefined series of activities or routines and data from that first user's performance may be utilized in a later conducted competition. In one embodiment, two or more users may engage in a “side-by-side” competition. For example, computer102 (or any other electronic device) may generate or store auser avatar802 while afirst user124 performs an exercise. Thesame computer102 and/or another computer, such as an electronic device that is in operative communication withnetwork132, may generate and/or store a second avatar representing the second user. Both of these avatars may be displayed on a single display device, such asdisplay136 at the location of user124 (and/or at the location of the second user). Thus,user124 may see both avatars. Each user's avatar may be displayed with their own shadow during the performance of any athletic activities. In certain implementations, the shadows may represent an ideal form for the respective user. Examples of using shadows to represent forms are provided below in the following subsection. In further embodiments, users may be “handicapped” by utilizing variable shadow properties. Shadows may be generated based upon past performance in one or more activities, such as the activity being performed in competition or upon an assessment of a person's respective capabilities (e.g., current fitness level). Therefore, although two users may be competing against each other, one or both shadows other than those representing ideal form may be utilized so as to require a first user to have relatively better form and/or fitness parameters than a second user (e.g., the first user's virtual shadow may represent ideal form, while the second user's virtual shadow is less than ideal, such as in proportion with the relative fitness of the two users).

In other embodiments, users may compete with another user's shadow. For example, a first user, such asuser124 may have had a great workout and want to challenge a second user to see how they perform or stack up against the first user's workout. A shadow representing the first user's workout may be transmitted to permit the second user to compete against the first user's performance. In one embodiment, avirtual avatar802 of the second user may be displayed ondisplay136. Avirtual shadow1102 may be generated based upon the workout of thefirst user124.System100 may synchronize the start times such that theuser avatar802 appears to be competing against thevirtual shadow1102. When an exercise is complete,computer102 may inform either user of the winner.System100 may also provide side by side statistics of the second user's current performance relative to thevirtual shadow1102 of thefirst user124. Competing with other users' shadow(s)1102 may be performed in a real-time environment as well as permittingshadows1102 from previous athletic activities to be utilized.

c. Proper Form

In accordance with certain embodiments, computer102 (or any other electronic device) may also use theshadow1102 to provide feedback to a user on proper form. To aid a user with their form,virtual shadow1102 may be used to present proper form to a user while theuser124 is performing the exercise. For instance, thevirtual shadow1102 may be created based on capturing data from a professional athlete or trainer demonstrating proper form for an exercise. While performing repetitions of an exercise,computer102 may cause thedisplay136 to present thevirtual shadow1102 with proper exercise form relative to theuser avatar802. For instance, thevirtual shadow1102 may be depicted overtop of theuser avatar802, as shown inFIG. 13A, or offset from theuser avatar802, for example as shown inFIG. 13B. In an example, thevirtual shadow1102 may be an animation moved at the same pace as the user performing an exercise. In one embodiment,computer102 is configured to alter the pace of an animation based on the user's performance of the exercise.

d. Shadow Overlap

Further embodiments may include determining an amount of overlap between the user representation and the virtual shadow (seeblock310 ofFIG. 3). In an example, computer102 (or any other electronic device) may monitor and/or adjust how theuser avatar802 overlaps with thevirtual shadow1102 to provide the user with real-time feedback. For example,computer102 may define one or more overlap thresholds. In one embodiment,computer102 may monitor the overlap ofshadow1102 andavatar802. In one embodiment,system100 may determine that a user's form is good if there is at least a first predetermined threshold overlap (e.g., 95% or higher) between thevirtual shadow1102 and theuser avatar802, the user's form is acceptable if there is at least a second predetermined threshold overlap (e.g., between 85% and 95%), and that the user's form is improper if there is less than the second predetermined threshold overlap (e.g., less than 85%).

Further aspects relate to systems and methods for determining overlap. In one embodiment, computer102 (or any other electronic device) may divide an image from captured video into subsections to identify body parts that may be performing an incorrect movement, as shown inFIG. 14. In other embodiments, the sub-sections may be the similar to the regions discussed in relation toFIG. 5.

Looking toFIG. 14,computer102 may divide sensed data, represented byimage1400, into unique subsections1402 and may determine the amount of overlap between theshadow1102 and theuser avatar802 in each subsection. In one embodiment, one or more subsections1402 may correspond to quadrants, such as the quadrants illustrated inFIG. 5. In an example,FIG. 14 shows sixdifferent subsections1402A-F; however, any desired number may be used.Computer102 may compare the overlap to identify a subsection having a lowest percentage of overlap (e.g.,subsection1402D inFIG. 14).Computer102 also may identify one or more subsections having a percentage overlap below a predetermined amount (e.g., less than 60%).

In other examples,computer102 may determine an amount of overlap by processing the infrared data and/or the sensor data to determine locations, of a user's body parts (such as for example, one or more of locations402a-m), and comparing the identified locations to desired locations.Computer102 may define overlap zones that compare the amount of distance between a desired body part location and an actual location. For example, a good form zone may be within a first distance from a desired location (e.g., elbow is within 2 inches from desired location) or vary by no more than a certain percentage (e.g., 5%) from the desired location. An acceptable form zone may be within a second distance range of a desired location (e.g., elbow is within 2-4 inches from desired location) or where a body part differs by no more than a certain percentage (e.g., 15%) from the desired location. An unacceptable form zone may be more than a certain distance away from a desired location and/or where a body part differs by more than a certain percentage (e.g., more than 15%) from a desired location. Any number of zones may be defined.

e. Corrections

As part of the overlap determinations and/or other criteria,system100 may cause thedisplay136 to present a recommended correction to the user's form. This may be performed whether there is an indication of either an acceptable form zone or an unacceptable form zone. With reference toFIG. 10B, the displayedinstruction1006 may be provided to prompt the user to straighten their knees.Computer102 may also cause the displayed video of theuser avatar802 to flash a color, to highlight a particular body part in color (e.g., highlight hip region, elbow, etc. see1004 ofFIG. 10), to sound a tone or provide an audible instruction (e.g., straighten your back), to zoom in on or enlarge video of a body part or region of a user's body that has poor form, display a chart illustrating a difference between measured and desired form (e.g., angle between upper arm and form is 25% greater than desired), or other manners to audibly or visually inform the user of the problem. Although the correction is shown as part ofavatar802, other embodiments may show corrections as part of a shadow.

System100 may provide feedback to correct one problem at a time, and certain problems may take priority over others. Certain exercises or movements may place a user at risk for injury if not performed properly. Improper form that may result in injury may be of the highest priority, and from there other improper body part locations may be prioritized to assist the user in obtaining the full benefit of the exercise.

When in the unacceptable form zone,computer102 may provide feedback identifying misplaced body parts attempting to improve the user's form to move into the acceptable form zone. Once in the acceptable form zone,computer102 may provide feedback identifying misplaced body parts attempting to improve the user's form to move into the good form zone. If the user's form continues to be in the unacceptable form zone after a predetermined number of repetitions,computer102 may stop the exercise or routine. In certain embodiments,system100 may inform the user of the error and/or demonstrate the exercise again.Computer102 may also change the exercise to an easier one or may adapt the repetitions based on a user's execution. As the user's form improves over time,computer102 may shift from providing corrective feedback (e.g., instruction and correction) to providing motivation.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example display of a user avatar having a magnified inset view providing feedback on improper form while performing athletic movements in accordance with example embodiments. For the one or more body parts identified as having improper form (e.g., such as an identified subsection1402 shown inFIG. 14 having insufficient overlap with avirtual shadow1102 and/or or falling within an unacceptable form zone),system100 may provide one or more inset magnified views. For example, magnifiedview1502 ofFIG. 15 shows a body portion of theuser avatar802 that does not coincide (such as within a minimum threshold) with thevirtual shadow1102. As seen inFIG. 15, an arm of theuser avatar802 is not located at the same position as a corresponding arm of theshadow1102. This portion of theuser avatar802 is presented in a magnifiedinset view1502. The magnifiedinset view1502 may also highlight theuser avatar802 in a first color (e.g., red) to emphasize the problem.

In another aspect,computer102 may provide a replay feedback mode permitting a user to review their performance of an exercise. In one example,computer102 may determine instances in the video when overlap between theuser avatar802 andshadow1102 decreased below a certain threshold. For example,computer102 may process subsections1402 of each image, or at least some of the images, of the video to identify a subsection where overlap between theuser avatar802 andshadow1102 decreased below a threshold.System100 may identify and store a predetermined number of preceding images from the video corresponding to the identified subsection1402 and continue storing images from the video until the overlap between theuser avatar802 andshadow1102 increases above the threshold. The stored images may be referred to as a variance sequence.

System100 may provide the user with feedback on the number of variance sequences collected during athletic movements, and one or more body parts involved causing the variance.Display136 may display each of the variance sequences to provide the user with feedback on their form.System100 may also present thevirtual trainer avatar802 to provide an example of proper form with an enlarged view of the problem area and/or recommend remedial exercises and/or drills to aid the user in having proper form.

FIGS. 16A-B illustrate example displays for depicting a user avatar relative to a virtual shadow for detecting improper form and providing feedback to a user in accordance with example embodiments. InFIG. 16A, auser avatar802 is represented by lines positioned within ashadow1102.System100 may monitor the user's form and look for certain angles between a user's body parts, as well as determining whether theuser avatar802 remains within theshadow1102. For example, thesystem100 may monitor an angle between the thigh and shin of theuser avatar802, as well as an angle between a user's torso and thighs. In an example, a desired angle between a user's thigh and shin may be 61.6°, and acceptable form may be within a range of 21° of the desired angle (e.g., between 50.5° and 72.1°). InFIG. 16B, an angle between the thigh and shin of theuser avatar802 may fall outside of the desired range (e.g., 47°). To emphasize that the user (represented by avatar802) has improper form, theavatar802 may be displayed as not being completely within theshadow1102. As seen inFIG. 16B, the thigh of theuser avatar802 is outside of the thigh of theshadow1102. For example, shadow may be defined with an area having an outer perimeter, such asperimeter1602. Althoughperimeter1602 is shown as a single perimeter, those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will understand thatshadow1102 may be comprised of multiple sections or regions, each with their own respective perimeter. Also, the problem area may be highlighted in thedisplay136 with an instruction to improve the user's form. For example, thedisplay136 may present an instruction that instructs the user to maintain their thighs parallel to the ground at the lowest point of a squat. Data received from multiple sensors, which may be variously disposed (including on the user) may be utilized in these and other determinations.

f. Skill Level Determinations

With reference again toFIG. 13A,virtual shadow1102 may also be used to signify a skill level of the user. In one example,system100 may adjust a size of thevirtual shadow1102 based on a user's ability to maintain proper form.Computer102 may determine whether a user is able to use proper form based on their ability to maintain theuser avatar802 within thevirtual shadow1102 while performing an exercise. The size of theshadow1102 may correspond to a skill level of the user in performing an exercise. For example, in certain implementations, a novice user may begin with a larger virtual shadow. The size of the shadow (or portions thereof) may be reduced until it substantially conforms to a virtual size of the user's body.

Initially,system100 may instruct theuser124 to perform a series of exercises to assess a user's form for each exercise. For example, either continuously or at a certain discrete points within an exercise,system100 may compare a location of various body parts of theuser avatar802 to theshadow1102. For example, the discrete points may correspond to certain positions within an exercise where a user's form may be important to ensure that a particular a muscle or muscle group is being worked and/or to prevent or reduce the likelihood of a user injuring him or herself. In one example,computer102 may determine an amount of overlap between theuser avatar802 and theshadow1102. In an example,computer102 may also define multiple shadows, where a first shadow is a beginner shadow, a second shadow is an intermediate shadow, and a third shadow is an expert shadow. Of course, any number of shadows may be defined.

System100 may compare a user's form to each of the three (or more) shadows, for example, by determining an amount of overlap with each. In one example, at least some of the shadows may be associated with a threshold amount of overlap. The overlap threshold amount may represent a minimum amount of overlap with the shadow to have reached the skill level for that shadow. For example, the novice shadow may not be associated with a threshold, the intermediate shadow may be associated with an 85% overlap threshold, and the expert shadow may be associated with a 90% overlap threshold. Thresholds may be in relation to the entire shadow or with respect to certain regions of it.

To determine that a user has reached a certain skill level,system100 may determine if the amount of overlap between theuser avatar802 and a particular shadow exceeds the overlap threshold for that shadow. In an example,system100 may take calculate the amount of overlap of theuser avatar802 with each of the shadows at certain times during an exercise or series of athletic movements, and average the overlap amounts.System100 may compare the average to each of the thresholds and assign theuser124 a particular one of the shadows based on their skill level. For example,computer102 may determine that auser avatar802 has an average overlap amount of 95% with the novice shadow, an average overlap amount of 85% with the intermediate shadow, and a 60% average overlap amount with the expert shadow.

Using the example thresholds above,system100 may classify theuser124 as having an intermediate skill level and display the intermediate shadow when the user subsequently performs that exercise.Computer102 may monitor the user over time and inform the user when their form has improved so that they can exercise with a next higher skill level shadow.System100 may also move the user to a next lower skill level shadow if their form declines.Computer102 may communicate a user's shadow size and overlap percentage for that shadow to theserver134. For example, theserver134 may provide a social networking website and may rank users based on their shadow size.

5. Overlap Score Determinations

Further embodiments may include generating a feedback score based on the amount of overlap (see, e.g., block312 ofFIG. 3). In an example,system100 may generate a feedback score based on how well the user controlled theuser avatar802 to correspond to thevirtual shadow1102. For instance,system100 may provide a scoring algorithm for indicating how well the user controlled theuser avatar802 to correspond to thevirtual shadow1102. A user's score may be uploaded to a social network or website, such as throughserver134, and utilized in the ranking of users relative to one another or a standard.

System100 may monitor a location of individual body parts of the user or groups of body parts, and assign a location score to each body part or body part group based on whether each is in the correct location. With reference toFIG. 8, for example,computer102 may determine an angle between a straight line across a user's hips andform guidance information702.Computer102 may assign an angle score based on the angle between the line ofcurrent form information804 and the line ofform guidance information702. A smaller angle may correspond to a higher score. In another example, with reference toFIG. 16B,system100 may assign an angle score based on relative positions of body parts. For example,computer102 may assign an angle score based on comparing an angle between a thigh and shin of a user to a desired angle. Rotation of a first body part or region with respect to a second body part or region may be determined. In one embodiment, one or more sensors may be positioned or configured to detect the orientation, position, and/or distance of theuser124 with respect to another object. For example, a reference point in the user's environment or on the user may be utilized to determine relative aspects of the user, including location, movements, rotation, orientation, and combinations thereof.

In another example, with reference toFIGS. 10A-10B,system100 may assign a target score if a user is able to place a body part within a virtual target1002 at one or more time intervals. In yet another example,system100 may assign an overlap score based on the amount of overlap of auser avatar802 relative to ashadow1102.

In certain embodiments,system100 may determine a workout score as a sum of the scores. The scores assigned may vary by type of exercise, and some scores may be weighted more heavily than others. For example, a workout score may be a weighted sum of one or more angle scores, one or more virtual target scores, and one or more overlap scores. Scores may also be negative. In an example,computer102 may determine a sum of two angle scores (e.g., between torso and thigh, and between thigh and shin), a virtual target score, and an overlap score.Computer102 may communicate the total score to theserver134, which may rank the user relative to other users based on their form during a particular movement or series of movements.

6. Body Systems Feedback

In additional examples, thedisplay136 may inform the user of body systems targeted during athletic activities, such as muscle groups targeted during an exercise.FIG. 17 illustrates an example display providing a user with feedback on muscles being developed by an exercise in accordance with example embodiments. In one embodiment,system100 may process an image of theuser124 and cause thedisplay136 to present agrid1702A/1702B on one or more muscles being developed by an exercise. As seen inFIG. 17, agrid1702A is displayed proximate to a user's shoulder and arm, and agrid1702B is displayed proximate to a user's hamstring. Displaying a grid on a user's muscle or muscle group may be referred to as “onion-skinning.” Onion skinning may be used to focus a user's attention on a particular system or region, such as a muscle or muscle group worked during an exercise.System100 may also cause thedisplay136 to present onion skinning on thevirtual trainer avatar602 during demonstration of an exercise. After or during a workout, theuser124 may select the onion skinned location using a computer mouse or other input device, by making a motion in front of theimage capturing device126, or by a voice command to instructcomputer102, to peel back the avatar's skin to display the muscle working during the exercise.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method for providing virtual competition in a virtual environment, such as between multiple virtual avatars, in accordance with one or more example embodiments. Various methods may be implemented by a computer, such as, for example,computer102,device138,140,142 and/or144, and/or other apparatuses. The blocks shown inFIG. 18 may be rearranged, some blocks may be removed, additional blocks may be added, each block may be repeated one or more times, and the flow diagram may be repeated one or more times. The flow diagram may begin atblock1802.

Inblock1802, one or more embodiments may include prompting a first user, such asuser124, to perform at least one exercise during a workout session. In an example,computer102 may prompt a user to perform one or more exercises during a workout session. A workout session may include a predetermined number of exercises (e.g., pushups, squats, lunges, etc.) wherecomputer102 prompts the user to perform a predetermined number of repetitions of each exercise. A workout session may also involve a single athletic activity (e.g., run 10 miles).

As part of the workout session, theuser124 may compete against their previous performance of the workout session or another user. For example,computer102 may display multiple avatars, where a first user avatar corresponds to their current performance, and a second user avatar corresponds to a previous performance of the workout session.FIG. 19 illustrates an example display ofmultiple avatars802a-bcompeting against one another in a virtual environment.

In another example, a second of theuser avatars802bmay be based on data obtained from monitoring a second user (e.g., not user124) during a workout session. The data may be received from a remote location (e.g., communicated via network132) or from the same location as thefirst user124. In an example, the second user may complete a particular workout session where their computer monitors the second user's performance, and cause their computer to send a challenge tocomputer102 challenging the first user to beat their performance. The challenge may include data of the second user performing the particular workout session. In a further example, both users may perform a workout session at the same time, whererespective computers102 may monitor each user's performance, and exchange data with the other user's computer vianetwork132 so that each computer can cause display of the other's avatar in a virtual competition.

Inblock1804, one or more embodiments may include monitoring with a monitoring device the first user performing the at least one exercise. As discussed above, various monitoring devices, such as, for example,sensors128,138,140,142, and144 and/orcamera126, may capture data of the user performing one or more exercises.

Inblock1806, one or more embodiments may include generating a first virtual avatar of the first user based on data captured by the monitoring device. As explained throughout this disclosure, multiple sensors may be utilized, either in combination or alone, to monitor data. In one embodiment,computer102 may generate avirtual avatar802aof the user based on data captured by one or more ofsensors128,138,140,142,144 and/orcamera126

Inblock1808, one or more embodiments may include generating a first virtual shadow for the first virtual avatar that is based on attributes relating to the first user. As discussed above,computer102 may generate avirtual shadow1102a. For example,computer102 may generate avirtual shadow1102ahaving a particular size based on the skill level of the user.

Inblock1810, one or more embodiments may include receiving second user data corresponding to a second user for generating a second virtual avatar and a second virtual shadow. In certain implementations, the second virtual avatar is based on monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise and the second virtual shadow is based on attributes relating to the second user. In an example,system100 may receive data captured by monitoring a second user performing the same exercises in the workout session. The received data may also include information on a virtual shadow of the second user. The second user data may be based on simultaneous performance of the workout sessions by the users, or may be based on a previously completed workout session.

Inblock1812, one or more embodiments may include displaying simultaneously on a display device the first and secondvirtual avatars802a-band the first and second virtual shadows1002a-b. In an example,computer102 may causedisplay136 to simultaneously display avirtual avatar802a-bcorresponding to each of the users.Display136 may also display avirtual shadow1102a-bfor each avatar.Computer102 may synchronize the start of the workout session to permit theavatars802a-bto compete in a virtual environment. In an example, the competition may be of a footrace, a race where user's movement causes a vehicle to move, weightlifting, jumping, or other type (or combinations) of athletic competition. The virtual environment presented bydisplay136 may correspond to the activity being performed. For example, the virtual environment may be a track for a footrace, a gym for a weightlifting session, etc.

To provide for competition between the users,computer102 may score how well each of the users is able to maintain theirvirtual avatar802a-bwithin theirshadow1102a-bduring the workout session, and may display the scores at the end of the session. For instance,computer102 may generate a first score for a first user based on movement of the firstvirtual avatar802arelative to the firstvirtual shadow1102aduring the workout session and a second score for a second user based on movement of the secondvirtual avatar802brelative to the secondvirtual shadow1102bduring the workout session. Users may receive points by maintaining theiruser avatar802 within itsshadow1102, and may lose points when falling outside of theshadow1102.

The size of eachshadow1102a-bmay correspond to a skill level of a user. For example, a higher skill level may result in asmaller shadow1102 that is tailored to the shape of theuser avatar802, thus allowing a user less margin for error to maintain theiravatar802 within thevirtual shadow1102. Conversely, a lower skill level may correspond to alarger shadow1102 permitting a user a greater margin of error.Computer102 may also apply a handicap to the firstvirtual shadow1102aor the secondvirtual shadow1102bbased on skill level of the first user relative to skill level of the second user, so that competitors can be challenged regardless of each user's actual skill level. To implement the handicapping,computer102 may, for example, adjust a size of the firstvirtual shadow1102aor the secondvirtual shadow1102b.

At the completion of the workout session,computer102 may determine a score for each user, as well as who had a better score (e.g., winner) during the workout session.Computer102 may also display one or more performance metrics for each of the users for comparison based on the type of exercises being performed. For example,computer102 may display an aggregate total (e.g., total number of pushups completed), highest attribute (e.g., fastest speed, greatest distance, etc.), average metric (e.g., average speed), or other athletic performance information. With reference toFIG. 18, the method may end or return to any of the preceding blocks.

CONCLUSION

Providing an activity environment having one or more of the features described herein may provide a user with an immersive experience that will encourage and motivate the user to engage in athletic activities and improve his or her fitness. Users may further communicate through social communities and challenge one another to reach various levels of fitness, and to view their fitness level and activity.

Aspects of the embodiments have been described in terms of illustrative embodiments thereof. Numerous other embodiments, modifications and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary skill in the art from a review of this disclosure. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the steps illustrated in the illustrative figures may be performed in other than the recited order, and that one or more steps illustrated may be optional in accordance with aspects of the embodiments.

Claims (17)

What is claimed is:

1. A computer-implemented method comprising:

prompting a first user to perform at least one exercise during a workout session;

monitoring with a first monitoring device the first user performing the at least one exercise, wherein the first monitoring device comprises a flexible force sensor integrated into an article of apparel of the first user;

generating, by a processor, a first virtual avatar of the first user having a first contiguous area that includes a first plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of a first human subject, and based on data captured by the first monitoring device, wherein the first virtual avatar displays an angle between body parts of the first user calculated by the flexible force sensor;

generating a first virtual shadow for the first virtual avatar that is based on attributes relating to the first user, wherein the first virtual shadow comprises a second contiguous area that is larger than the first contiguous area and comprising a second plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the first human subject, wherein the second plurality of appendage sub-areas of the first virtual shadow are larger than the first plurality of appendage sub-areas of the first virtual avatar;

receiving second user data, from a second monitoring device, corresponding to a second user for generating a second virtual avatar and a second virtual shadow, wherein the second virtual avatar is based on monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise and the second virtual shadow is based on attributes relating to the second user, wherein the second virtual avatar has a third contiguous area comprising a third plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of a second human subject and the second virtual shadow comprises a fourth contiguous area that is larger than the third contiguous area and comprising a fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the second human subject, wherein the fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual shadow are larger than the third plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual avatar;

displaying simultaneously on a display device the first and second virtual avatars and the first and second virtual shadows; and

applying a handicap to the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow based on skill level of the first user relative to skill level of the second user.

2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the second user data is received from a remote location.

3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the applying the handicap adjusts a size of the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow.

4. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising generating a first score for the first user based on movement of the first virtual avatar relative to the first virtual shadow during the workout session and a second score for the second user based on movement of the second virtual avatar relative to the second virtual shadow during the workout session.

5. The method ofclaim 4, wherein a size of the first virtual shadow is based on a skill level of the first user and a size of the second virtual shadow is based on a skill level of the second user.

6. The method ofclaim 4, further comprising identifying a winner upon completion of the workout session based on the first score and the second score.

7. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the second user data corresponds to monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise during a previously completed workout session.

8. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the workout session is a first workout session, and wherein the second user data corresponds to monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise during a second workout session occurring at a same time as the first workout session.

9. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising displaying a first performance metric for the first virtual avatar and a second performance metric for the second virtual avatar.

10. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform at least:

prompting a first user to perform at least one exercise during a workout session;

monitoring with a first monitoring device the first user performing the at least one exercise, wherein the first monitoring device comprises a flexible piezoresistive sensor integrated into an article of apparel of the first user;

generating a first virtual avatar of the first user having a first contiguous area that includes a first plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of a first human subject, and based on data captured by the first monitoring device, wherein the first virtual avatar displays an angle between body parts of the first user calculated by the flexible piezoresistive sensor;

generating a first virtual shadow for the first virtual avatar that is based on attributes relating to the first user, wherein the first virtual shadow comprises a second contiguous area that is larger than the first contiguous area and comprising a second plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the first human subject, wherein the second plurality of appendage sub-areas of the first virtual shadow are larger than the first plurality of appendage sub-areas of the first virtual avatar;

receiving second user data, from a second monitoring device, corresponding to a second user for generating a second virtual avatar and a second virtual shadow, wherein the second virtual avatar is based on monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise and the second virtual shadow is based on attributes relating to the second user, wherein the second virtual avatar has a third contiguous area comprising a third plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the second human subject and the second virtual shadow comprises a fourth contiguous area that is larger than the third contiguous area and comprising a fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the second human subject, wherein the fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual shadow are larger than the third plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual avatar;

displaying simultaneously on a display device the first and second virtual avatars and the first and second virtual shadows; and

applying a handicap to the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow based on skill level of the first user relative to skill level of the second user.

11. The computer readable medium ofclaim 10, wherein the handicap adjusts a size of the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow.

12. The computer readable medium ofclaim 10, wherein the computer-readable medium comprises further instructions, that when executed by a processor, perform:

generating a first score for the first user based on movement of the first virtual avatar relative to the first virtual shadow during the workout session and a second score for the second user based on movement of the second virtual avatar relative to the second virtual shadow during the workout session.

13. The computer readable medium ofclaim 12, wherein the computer-readable medium comprises further instructions, that when executed by a processor, perform:

identifying a winner upon completion of the workout session based on the first score and the second score.

14. An apparatus comprising:

at least one processor; and

at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium storing executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to at least to perform:

prompting a first user to perform at least one exercise during a workout session;

monitoring with a first monitoring device the first user performing the at least one exercise, wherein the first monitoring device comprises a flexible force sensor integrated into an article of apparel of the first user;

generating a first virtual avatar of the first user having a first contiguous area shaped like a first human subject that includes a first plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the first human subject, and based on data captured by the first monitoring device, wherein the first virtual avatar displays an angle between body parts of the first user calculated by the flexible force sensor;

generating a first virtual shadow for the first virtual avatar that is based on attributes relating to the first user, wherein the first virtual shadow comprises a second contiguous area shaped like the first human subject that is larger than the first contiguous area and comprises a second plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the first human subject, wherein the second plurality of appendage sub-areas of the virtual shadow are larger than the first plurality of appendage sub-areas of the first virtual avatar;

receiving second user data, from a second monitoring device, corresponding to a second user for generating a second virtual avatar and a second virtual shadow, wherein the second virtual avatar is based on monitoring of the second user performing the at least one exercise and the second virtual shadow is based on attributes relating to the second user, wherein the second virtual avatar has a third contiguous area shaped like a second human subject comprising a third plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the second human subject and the second virtual shadow comprises a fourth contiguous area that is shaped like the second human subject but larger than the third contiguous area and comprising a fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas representing appendages of the second human subject, wherein the third plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual shadow are larger than the fourth plurality of appendage sub-areas of the second virtual avatar;

displaying simultaneously on a display device the first and second virtual avatars and the first and second virtual shadows; and

applying a handicap to the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow based on skill level of the first user relative to skill level of the second user.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the applying the handicap adjusts a size of the first virtual shadow or the second virtual shadow.

16. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the instructions, when executed, further cause the apparatus to generate a first score for the first user based on movement of the first virtual avatar relative to the first virtual shadow during the workout session and a second score for the second user based on movement of the second virtual avatar relative to the second virtual shadow during the workout session.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 16, wherein the computer-readable medium comprises further instructions, that when executed by a processor, perform:

identifying a winner upon completion of the workout session based on the first score and the second score.

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